FAYE Davis has been a keen member, student and tutor at Port Macquarie’s University of the Third Age (U3A) for 22 years.
Aged 92, she epitomises the U3A motto, “Learners Live Longer.”
U3A is an international movement founded on the belief that older people, who are considered to be in their “third age of life”, have more to contribute and learn.
There are over 250 U3A groups in Australia, with a membership in excess of 10,000.
“When my husband and I decided to downsize and move north to a warmer climate, one of the prerequisites of our future home was that there was a U3A in close proximity,” Faye said.
“The U3A was a relatively new organisation in Port Macquarie, with no central home, and classes scattered wherever a space could be found.”
Faye’s passion for history and the arts is reflected in the four classes she is currently undertaking – Australian History, Ancient History, Shakespeare on Screen and Art and Design.
She still presents as a guest tutor and members are always keen to hear her talk about her special interests.
“Just when you think you have reached an age when you know everything, there is so much joy to be had in learning something new.
“The U3A is a place where you can learn or relearn something you didn’t know much, or anything, about.
“And, if you feel so inclined, [you can] socialise with your classmates over a cuppa in our beautiful courtyard.”
Port Macquarie U3A President Karen Roberts agrees.
“The U3A provides many opportunities to meet new friends while keeping your body and mind healthy,” she said.
The non-profit organisation is now accepting enrolments for Term 2.
Classes include dancing, art and craft, photography, Tai Chi, chess, philosophy, Australian history, art history, card games, languages, current affairs, drama, music and yoga.
More information can be found at pmhu3a.org.au.
By Pauline CAIN
